Helan County Travel

Helan County, Yinchuan, Ningxia — the core area of the eastern foothills of Helan Mountain, a perfect combination of the world's rock art treasury and premium wine region. A 2-day winter tour includes ice and snow sports, cultural heritage exploration, and wine tasting.

5000+
Ancient Rock Paintings
20+
Ski Runs
50+
Wineries
-10°C
Average Winter Temperature
Close-up of the Sun God totem at Helan Mountain Rock Art, Helan County
Helan Mountain Rock Art Site
Artistic treasures left by ancient nomadic peoples, recording scenes of human life from 3000 years ago

Helan County Two-Day One-Night Winter Tour

Unlock ancient rock art codes, experience alpine skiing thrills, savor fine wines, and enjoy the unique charm of the northern frontier in winter

Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Helan Mountain Rock Art, Suyukou Ski Resort, Jinshan Vineyard
Suitable For
Ski enthusiasts, culture explorers, food and wine lovers
Budget per Person
¥800-¥1200
01
Ice, Snow & Culture
Helan Mountain Rock Art · Suyukou Ski Resort · Nuanquan Ancient Town
Highlights

Decode the mysteries of Helan Mountain rock art in the morning, experience winter fun at Suyukou Ski Resort in the afternoon, and visit Nuanquan Ancient Town in the evening for its signature hotpot.

Attractions
Helan Mountain Rock Art
A world-class rock art treasury containing over 5,000 ancient paintings. The Sun God totem and hunting scenes are well preserved, dating back to the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods.
Suyukou Ski Resort
A top-tier ski resort in Northwest China with over 20 professional runs. The longest run extends 1,200 meters, equipped with international standard cable cars.
Nuanquan Ancient Town
A thousand-year-old town named after its underground hot springs. It retains Ming and Qing architectural styles and is famous in winter for its steaming hotpot feasts.
Practical Info
Accommodation
  • Suyukou Ski Resort Hotel
  • Hot Spring Hotel
  • Vineyard Boutique Homestay
Food Recommendations
  • Nuanquan Lamb Hotpot
  • Helan Mountain Wild Mushroom Noodles
  • Roasted Whole Lamb
Tips
  • Professional guide recommended for rock art area
  • Ski equipment available for rent
  • Watch your step on ancient town cobblestone streets
02
Wine & Countryside
Jinshan Vineyard · Goji Berry Plantation · Yellow River Ancient Ferry
Highlights

Morning visit to Jinshan Vineyard to learn about winemaking and enjoy tastings, afternoon goji berry picking experience, evening sunset viewing at the Yellow River Ancient Ferry.

Attractions
Jinshan Vineyard
A core winery in the eastern foothills of Helan Mountain, using French oak barrel aging techniques. Offers a full experience from grape picking to bottling.
Goji Berry Plantation
One of Ningxia's main goji berry producing areas. In winter, visitors can tour greenhouse cultivation and experience goji berry picking and processing.
Yellow River Ancient Ferry
An important ferry site from the Ming and Qing dynasties. In winter, the frozen Yellow River creates a unique landscape, making it an excellent spot for sunset photography.
Practical Info
Transportation
  • Sightseeing bus between wineries
  • Goji berry plantation requires reservation
  • Self-driving recommended for the ferry site
Experience Activities
  • Wine tasting ¥100/person
  • Goji berry picking ¥50
  • Ice skating at the ferry
Tips
  • Book wine tasting in advance
  • Greenhouses are warm, bring light clothing
  • Follow safety rules for ice activities

Must-Try Foods in Helan County

Nuanquan Lamb Hotpot

A specialty of the ancient town. Tan lamb is simmered in a copper pot heated by local hot spring water, with tofu and vermicelli. The broth is fresh and the meat tender, perfect for warming up.

Helan Mountain Purple Mushroom Stewed Chicken

Slow-cooked free-range chicken with purple mushrooms native to Helan Mountain. The earthy aroma of mountain delicacies blends perfectly with the freshness of the chicken.

Wine-Braised Lamb

Local Tan lamb slow-braised with red wine from the eastern foothills of Helan Mountain. The meat is tender and infused with wine aroma, showcasing the fusion of Eastern and Western cooking.

Helan County Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • Dec-Feb: Best ski season
  • Sep-Oct: Grape harvest season
  • Avoid Mar-Apr sandstorm period
Must-Try Experiences
  • Rock art rubbing experience
  • Intermediate ski run challenge
  • Winery cellar tour
  • Ice activities on the Yellow River
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: approx ¥200
  • Accommodation: ¥300-500/night
  • Meals: ¥100-150/day
  • Transport: around ¥150
  • Total: ¥800-1200
Notes
  • Ski insurance required
  • Do not touch rock art
  • Strict drunk driving checks
  • Follow safety zones for ice activities

Explore Districts & Counties of Yinchuan